By Draxon Maloya
MZUZU: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) will not start prosecuting Mzimba North Parliamentarian Yeremiah Chihana until other officials from M’mbelwa District Council are arrested.
ACB lawyer Stanley Nyasulu told the court on Thursday that despite having witnesses ready, the State won’t rush due to ACB’s commitment to good governance and proper case management.
Nyasulu who is being assisted by counsel Gift Malopa explained that Chihana was arrested, for alleged abuse of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) in 2022.
“In 2022, the Anti-Corruption Bureau received a complaint alleging that Honourable Chihana and M’mbelwa District Council officials misused Constituency Development Fund resources. Following our investigation, we believe crimes were committed under Section 15 of the Corrupt Practices Act,” Nyasulu informed the court.
Chihana’s lawyer, Wapona Kitta, argued that the State should be ready for trial, given the case’s age, and cited his client’s strong community ties and health issues, including diabetes.
“Given the significant delay between the warrant’s issuance on April 7, 2023, and my client’s arrest on April 15, 2025, it’s unlikely he’ll interfere with investigations,” argued Kitta.
The court granted Chihana bail with conditions: a K1 million cash surety, a K10 million bond, reporting to the ACB’s Lilongwe office, and surrendering his travel documents.
Chihana, the 60 year old lawmaker faces three counts: two counts of abuse of office and failure to declare interest in public works.
